Winter weather and harsh weather are tough on cars. Now that spring is here, it’s time to pay closer attention to your hard-working vehicle. This post is about getting your car into top shape and prepping your car for spring.
Begin by giving your car’s exterior a thorough cleaning. Wash the undercarriage to remove corrosive road salts. If you go to a car wash, pay for premium service now. If you’re washing the car at home, add baking soda to warm water to remove as much of the corrosive salts as possible. This will protect the paint on your used car.
After thoroughly reviewing the car’s many systems, take it to a reliable service shop for a spring checkup. Costs for this service may vary.
Here’s what your checkup should include.
Whether your tires are brand new, or you’ve been driving on them for a few years, check pressure levels on all four tires and the spare:
Winter driving is hard on your brakes. Your brakes must be in good shape to protect you and passengers in the vehicle. Ask a service tech to check the rotors, pads, and fluids.
If you recently bought a used car, make sure your brakes are in tip-top shape.
Potholes that pop up in inclement weather can turn Houston’s highways into an obstacle course. Driving on uneven terrain can damage your vehicle’s suspension and alignment:
Most recent model cars have sophisticated electrical systems. It’s a good idea to check your vehicle’s electrical systems now. Many service providers offer a free battery check to determine the strength of your battery. If it’s getting weak, replace it now to stave off future problems.
If you’ve ever run out of window washing fluids, you know it’s important to check your vehicle’s window washing, brake, power steering, and cooling system fluids. Ask your service tech to put a sticker on the windshield, to remind you it’s time for an oil change:
Ensure that your vehicle’s engine is properly cooled as the weather gets warmer. Check that coolant levels are at the proper level.
Many vehicles come outfitted with a fluid level gauge. Consult the owner’s manual to learn how to check your particular model’s level. (Open the cap only when your vehicle is cool.)
If you don’t have a reliable mechanic, do an online search to find a service shop that’s appropriately licensed and insured. Ask the service if it warranties its work and for how long.
There’s nothing worse than losing a windshield wiper blade during a Houston spring or summer rain shower.
Ask the service tech to check your wipers so that it’s safe to navigate the highway.
Now that the exterior and working parts are in pristine working order, thoroughly vacuum and clean the interior. Remember how great it feels to drive a vehicle that’s clean and tidy.
Hire a detail shop or take your vacuum or dust buster to the parking space, garage or driveway now.
Spring is the perfect time to review your auto insurance policy. Consider that the currency policy levels are high enough to cover claims that commonly occur during the transition from cool to warm weather. For instance, comprehensive coverage often covers damages left by an animal interaction but collision coverage may cover costs associated with running into a particularly awful pothole.
If you’re ready to get behind the wheel of a used car in Houston, Shabana Motors offers in-house financing to drivers who qualify.